Head of National Cancer Institute Named Acting FDA Commissioner

WEDNESDAY, March 13, 2019 (HealthDay News) — The U.S. Food and Drug Administration will temporarily be overseen by the head of the National Cancer Institute when FDA Commissioner Scott Gottlieb, M.D., leaves the post next month.

The appointment of Ned Sharpless, M.D., was announced Tuesday, a week after Gottlieb, who was in the position for two years, said he would step down in April. He has said he wants to spend more time with his family, the Associated Press reported.

Sharpless, who has led the National Cancer Institute since October 2017, is one of several government officials believed to be in the running to become the next FDA commissioner.

A candidate for the position is nominated by the president and must be confirmed by the Senate.